Salmeterol is indicated for which type of COPD and asthma therapy?

Salmeterol is a long-acting beta-2 adrenergic agonist (LABA) that is primarily indicated for chronic therapy in both chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma management. It works by relaxing the muscles of the airways, leading to bronchodilation and subsequently improving airflow to the lungs. This bronchodilation effect lasts for an extended period, making it particularly useful for managing symptoms in patients who experience chronic, persistent airway obstruction.

Chronic therapy with salmeterol helps maintain open airways and significantly reduces the frequency of exacerbations. It is typically used in conjunction with inhaled corticosteroids for asthma patients who are not well controlled on inhaled corticosteroids alone.

In contrast, acute therapy is generally managed with short-acting bronchodilators, such as albuterol, which provide quick relief for sudden asthma symptoms or COPD exacerbations. Preventative therapy is more broadly defined and can encompass long-term management strategies, but salmeterol specifically is not used as a first-line preventative treatment. Lastly, intermittent therapy implies occasional use rather than a regular, controlled regimen, which does not align with salmeterol's intended use in chronic management.

Thus, the choice indicating chronic therapy aligns with the established role